Warning for Pet Owners: Beware of Tiny Bugs
With the warm weather approaching, various small critters start to reappear in gardens, forests, and the outdoors in general. Some of these creatures, while possibly disgusting to look at, can also pose real dangers to our pets. They can cause severe irritations to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tracts of our furry friends.
One such threat is the processionary caterpillar, named for their habit of moving in long, procession-like lines once spring arrives, typically from March to May. These caterpillars may look like a fun toy to dogs, but they are actually covered in stinging hairs that can cause serious damage.
The caterpillars possess microscopic, harpoon-shaped hairs that can trigger severe allergic reactions such as intense itching, mucosal inflammation, and even angioedema. This condition can cause swelling in areas of the animal’s head and sometimes vomiting. Eye contact is particularly hazardous as it can lead to conjunctivitis. If a dog ingests them during a walk, it might suffer from tongue necrosis, which can require amputation.
Immediate Actions and Veterinary Care
If a dog shows any of these symptoms, experts first recommend rinsing the dog’s skin and mouth thoroughly. The next critical step is to quickly take the animal to a veterinarian. “Every minute counts!” warns Nicolas Deswarte, a veterinarian and popularizer from Eure. He also advises notifying the authorities so that the hazardous area can be inspected and secured.
Processionary caterpillars often originate from Pine and Oak trees. They become a risk to pets when they travel from their nests in the tree branches to the ground. Contrary to popular belief, applying a bit of apple cider vinegar to the affected areas to disinfect the wound is not advisable. Apple cider vinegar does not neutralize the toxins released by the caterpillars. Instead, it could increase the dog’s pain and irritation. It is best to use clean water to rinse the affected areas.
